Estrus detection intensity and accuracy and optimal timing of insemination with automated activity monitors for dairy cows

Abstract

The use of automated activity monitoring (AAM) systems for estrus detection is increasing rapidly in the dairy industry in North America. While there is some peer-reviewed published information about the performance of these tools for management of reproduction, large-scale field studies in commercial dairy herds are needed to inform realistic expections of the performance of AAM systems and implementation of management practices to optimize their utility. The objectives were to assess the ability of AAM to detect estrus for first insemination, the accuracy of detection, and the optimum interval from the onset of estrus to insemination.